Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is the vibrant capital of Kerala, where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. From serene beaches to grand temples and lush greenery, the city offers something for every traveler. This blog highlights the top 20 attractions in Thiruvananthapuram, starting with the first five must-visit spots.

1. Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Description:
Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world, is a stunning architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple’s intricate carvings and murals are a testament to the Dravidian style.

History:
Believed to be over 1,000 years old, the temple is mentioned in ancient Tamil texts and has been a key spiritual center in Kerala. It gained worldwide fame after the discovery of immense treasure in its vaults.

Google Maps Link:
Padmanabhaswamy Temple Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; special darshan tickets ₹50–₹500.
– Opening Hours: 3:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 7:20 PM.
– Travel Options: Centrally located in Thiruvananthapuram, accessible by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Villa Maya: Known for its heritage ambiance and Kerala cuisine.
– Mother’s Veg Plaza: Famous for traditional Kerala vegetarian meals.

Pro Tip: Only Hindus are allowed entry, and traditional attire is mandatory. Men must wear a dhoti, and women must wear a saree or skirt and blouse.

2. Kovalam Beach

Description:
Kovalam Beach is a crescent-shaped coastline renowned for its pristine sands, calm waters, and stunning sunsets. It is a hub for water sports like surfing, parasailing, and catamaran rides.

History:
Kovalam became a popular tourist destination in the 1930s when the Travancore royalty promoted it as a leisure spot. Today, it’s one of Kerala’s most famous beaches.

Google Maps Link:
Kovalam Beach Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (best visited during daylight hours).
– Travel Options: Located 16 km from the city center, accessible by taxi or bus.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– The Tides Restaurant: Offers fresh seafood and beachside dining.
– Bait by Taj Green Cove: Known for its luxurious seafood specialties.

Pro Tip: Stay at one of the beachfront resorts for an immersive experience and easy access to the beach.

3. Napier Museum

Description:
The Napier Museum is an architectural gem housing a rich collection of artifacts, including ancient bronzes, ivory carvings, and a rare collection of ornaments and coins.

History:
Built in 1880, the museum is named after Lord Napier, the then Governor of Madras. It represents a mix of Indo-Saracenic architecture with Gothic influences.

Google Maps Link:
Napier Museum Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for adults; ₹5 for children.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays).
– Travel Options: Located in the city, accessible by taxi or local bus.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Café Jade: Known for its fusion dishes and cozy ambiance.
– Azad Restaurant: Offers authentic Kerala meals.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit with the nearby Trivandrum Zoo for a fun and educational day out.

4. Veli Tourist Village

Description:
Veli Tourist Village is a picturesque waterfront park where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea. The park offers pedal boating, horse rides, and a floating restaurant.

History:
Developed as a tourist spot by the Kerala Tourism Department, Veli Tourist Village showcases Kerala’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Google Maps Link:
Veli Tourist Village Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for adults; ₹10 for children; boating fees extra.
– Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 12 km from the city, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Floating Restaurant at Veli: Known for seafood and local dishes.
– Chakara Restaurant: Offers fresh fish preparations.

Pro Tip: Visit during the evening to enjoy a boat ride and the sunset over the Arabian Sea.

5. Poovar Island

Description:
Poovar Island is a serene backwater destination where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. The golden sands and tranquil ambiance make it a perfect escape.

History:
Poovar was once an important trading port for spices and timber during the reign of the Travancore kings. Today, it is a sought-after destination for eco-tourism.

Google Maps Link:
Poovar Island Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Boat ride packages start from ₹2,000 (varies by provider).
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (boat rides are available during daylight hours).
– Travel Options: Located 30 km from the city, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Estuary Island Restaurant: Offers a mix of Kerala and continental dishes.
– Poovar Boathouse Café: Known for its refreshing drinks and snacks.

Pro Tip: Opt for a houseboat stay or sunset cruise for an unforgettable experience.

6. Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

Description:
Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in India, featuring a variety of animals, reptiles, and birds. Set within lush, landscaped gardens, it provides a serene environment for families and nature lovers.

History:
Established in 1857 by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma, the zoo was initially designed to complement the Napier Museum. It has since evolved into a modern facility with a focus on conservation.

Google Maps Link:
Thiruvananthapuram Zoo Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for adults; ₹5 for children.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:15 PM (Closed on Mondays).
– Travel Options: Centrally located, accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Zam Zam Restaurant: Famous for its shawarma and Kerala cuisine.
– Villa Maya: Offers a luxurious dining experience with traditional Kerala dishes.

Pro Tip: Visit during early hours to see the animals in their most active state and avoid crowds.

7. Sree Chithra Art Gallery

Description:
Sree Chithra Art Gallery showcases an exquisite collection of Indian art, including traditional Kerala murals, Tanjore paintings, and works by renowned artists like Raja Ravi Varma.

History:
Opened in 1935 by the Maharaja of Travancore, the gallery is housed within the Napier Museum complex and serves as a treasure trove of art and culture.

Google Maps Link:
Sree Chithra Art Gallery Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for adults; ₹5 for children.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays).
– Travel Options: Located near the city center, easily accessible by taxi or local transport.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Garden Grille Restaurant: Known for Indian and continental dishes.
– Azad Restaurant: Offers Kerala-style meals.

Pro Tip: Allocate at least an hour to explore the collection, focusing on Raja Ravi Varma’s masterpieces.

8. Shangumugham Beach

Description:
Shangumugham Beach is a tranquil spot known for its vast shoreline, mesmerizing sunsets, and the iconic sculpture of a mermaid named *Jalakanyaka* by artist Kanayi Kunhiraman.

History:
Historically a leisure destination for the Travancore royalty, Shangumugham has evolved into a popular getaway for locals and tourists.

Google Maps Link:
Shangumugham Beach Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (daytime and sunset visits recommended).
– Travel Options: Located 8 km from the city center, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Old Coffee House: Famous for its coffee and snacks.
– Sunset Restaurant: Offers seafood specialties with a view of the sea.

Pro Tip: Visit during the evening for the sunset and enjoy the local street food, especially crispy fried fish.

9. Kanakakkunnu Palace

Description:
Kanakakkunnu Palace is a grand structure surrounded by picturesque gardens, often used as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. It is a symbol of Kerala’s regal heritage.

History:
Built during the reign of Maharaja Sree Moolam Thirunal in the 19th century, the palace was used as a guest house for hosting foreign dignitaries and royal banquets.

Google Maps Link:
Kanakakkunnu Palace Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located near the Napier Museum, accessible by taxi or local transport.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Pathayam Organic Café: Offers healthy and organic Kerala meals.
– Café Mojo: Known for light snacks and beverages.

Pro Tip: Visit during the Nishagandhi Dance Festival to experience traditional Indian art forms in the palace gardens.

10. Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary

Description:
Neyyar Dam is a popular picnic spot with scenic views, boating facilities, and a wildlife sanctuary that’s home to a variety of flora and fauna. It’s a great destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

History:
Constructed in 1958, the dam is part of the Neyyar River irrigation project. The adjacent wildlife sanctuary was established to protect the region’s biodiversity.

Google Maps Link:
Neyyar Dam Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for entry; additional charges for boating and wildlife safari.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 30 km from the city, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Dam View Restaurant: Offers local Kerala cuisine.
– Wildlife Café: Known for its fresh and simple meals.

Pro Tip: Explore the lion safari and crocodile park for a complete experience.

11. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

Description:
The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kannaki (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati). It is renowned for its annual Attukal Pongala festival, which draws millions of women devotees.

History:
Known as the “Sabarimala of Women,” the temple has a rich history intertwined with the Tamil epic *Silappatikaram*. It is believed that Kannaki rested here during her journey to Kodungallur.

Google Maps Link:
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 4:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 2 km from the city center, accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Azad Star Restaurant: Offers traditional Kerala meals.
– Annalakshmi Vegetarian Restaurant: Known for its wholesome vegetarian thalis.

Pro Tip: Visit during the Pongala festival (February/March) to witness the world’s largest gathering of women for a religious offering.

12. Vizhinjam Lighthouse

Description:
Vizhinjam Lighthouse, perched atop a rocky hill, offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the nearby Kovalam Beach. The iconic red-and-white structure is a photographer’s delight.

History:
Built in 1972, the lighthouse played a vital role in guiding ships navigating the Kerala coast. Its strategic location near the ancient Vizhinjam port adds to its historical significance.

Google Maps Link:
Vizhinjam Lighthouse Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹10 for adults; ₹3 for children.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
– Travel Options: Located 17 km from the city, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Curry Leaf Restaurant: Offers seafood and Kerala-style dishes.
– Skybar at Taj Green Cove: Known for its premium dining experience.

Pro Tip: Climb the spiral staircase to the top for breathtaking sunset views.

13. Priyadarshini Planetarium

Description:
The Priyadarshini Planetarium is one of the most advanced planetariums in India, offering immersive sky-gazing experiences and educational shows about astronomy and space science.

History:
Inaugurated in 1994, the planetarium is part of the Kerala Science and Technology Museum and has been instrumental in popularizing science education in the region.

Google Maps Link:
Priyadarshini Planetarium Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹60 for adults; ₹30 for children.
– Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Shows are conducted at fixed intervals).
– Travel Options: Located near the city center, accessible by taxi or local bus.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Zam Zam Restaurant: Known for its biryanis and grilled dishes.
– Cherries & Berries Café: Offers quick snacks and beverages.

Pro Tip: Check the show schedule in advance to catch the English or Malayalam presentation of your choice.

14. Varkala Cliff and Beach

Description:
Varkala Cliff and Beach is a stunning coastal destination known for its unique red cliffs, pristine sands, and healing mineral springs. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and yoga.

History:
The beach is also known as Papanasam Beach, where Hindus perform rituals to honor their ancestors. The cliffs have geological significance and are a designated National Geological Monument.

Google Maps Link:
Varkala Cliff and Beach Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (daytime and sunset visits recommended).
– Travel Options: Located 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram, accessible by taxi, bus, or train.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Darjeeling Café: Known for its continental and seafood dishes.
– Clafouti Restaurant: Offers local and international cuisine with stunning sea views.

Pro Tip: Visit the Ayurvedic spas and yoga centers on the cliff for a holistic experience.

15. Magic Planet

Description:
Magic Planet is a one-of-a-kind theme park dedicated to the art of magic. It features live magic shows, illusion exhibits, and interactive sessions for children and adults alike.

History:
Founded by the famous magician Gopinath Muthukad, the park was inaugurated in 2014 to revive and preserve the dying art of magic in India.

Google Maps Link:
Magic Planet Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹490 for adults; ₹390 for children.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 12 km from the city, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Magic Café: Offers simple meals and snacks within the park.
– Saravana Bhavan: Known for its vegetarian South Indian dishes.

Pro Tip: Book tickets online to secure your spot for popular shows and workshops.

16. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum (Puthenmalika Palace)

Description:
Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, also known as Puthenmalika Palace, is a magnificent example of traditional Kerala architecture. It houses exquisite artifacts, royal furniture, and murals from the Travancore royal family.

History:
Built in the mid-19th century by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, a patron of art and music, the palace is named after the 122 wooden horse sculptures adorning its roof.

Google Maps Link:
Kuthiramalika Palace Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹30 for adults; ₹10 for children.
– Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Located near Padmanabhaswamy Temple, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Arul Jyothi: Known for its vegetarian South Indian meals.
– Biverah Hotel Restaurant: Offers multi-cuisine options.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit with Padmanabhaswamy Temple for a day immersed in history and spirituality.

17. Varkala Sivagiri Mutt

Description:
Varkala Sivagiri Mutt is a spiritual center and pilgrimage site founded by social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. The serene ashram and the Guru’s tomb attract devotees and peace seekers alike.

History:
Established in 1904, the Mutt was the hub for Sree Narayana Guru’s teachings on equality and social reform. The annual Sivagiri Pilgrimage attracts thousands of visitors.

Google Maps Link:
Varkala Sivagiri Mutt Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 40 km from the city, accessible by taxi or train to Varkala station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– True Thomas Café: Known for its fusion dishes and coffee.
– God’s Own Country Kitchen: Offers traditional Kerala meals.

Pro Tip: Visit in December during the annual pilgrimage for cultural events and discourses.

18. Ponmudi Hill Station

Description:
Ponmudi is a picturesque hill station with rolling hills, tea plantations, and misty valleys. It is an ideal getaway for trekking, photography, and nature exploration.

History:
Known as the “Golden Peak,” Ponmudi has been a favorite retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering trails and waterfalls to explore.

Google Maps Link:
Ponmudi Hill Station Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (daytime visits recommended).
– Travel Options: Located 60 km from the city, accessible by private vehicle or taxi.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– KTDC Restaurant Ponmudi: Offers local Kerala cuisine.
– Highland Café: Known for tea and light snacks.

Pro Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for mesmerizing views and cooler weather.

19. Padmanabhapuram Palace

Description:
Padmanabhapuram Palace, a wooden palace located in Tamil Nadu but managed by the Kerala government, is a stunning example of traditional Kerala architecture and craftsmanship.

History:
Built in the 16th century by the Travancore kings, the palace was the royal residence before the capital shifted to Thiruvananthapuram. It houses exquisite murals, carvings, and artifacts.

Google Maps Link:
Padmanabhapuram Palace Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹30 for adults; ₹10 for children.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays).
– Travel Options: Located 50 km from the city, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Padmanabhapuram Heritage Restaurant: Known for Kerala meals.
– Kaapi Stop Café: Offers snacks and beverages.

Pro Tip: Allocate at least 2 hours to explore the extensive palace grounds and its intricate architecture.

20. Aruvikkara Dam and Reservoir

Description:
Aruvikkara Dam is a serene picnic spot located on the banks of the Karamana River. The reservoir and its surrounding greenery make it an ideal destination for relaxation and photography.

History:
Constructed as a part of the Karamana irrigation project, the dam provides water to Thiruvananthapuram city and serves as a tranquil retreat for visitors.

Google Maps Link:
Aruvikkara Dam Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (daytime visits recommended).
– Travel Options: Located 16 km from the city, accessible by taxi or local buses.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– River View Café: Offers traditional Kerala snacks.
– Green Garden Restaurant: Known for its vegetarian meals.

Pro Tip: Visit during the monsoon season for scenic views of the overflowing reservoir.